Walking every day is a non stressful, easy way to stay fit and healthy. Like any activity, having the right equipment is a key to your success. This guide gives you tips for finding the most comfortable walking shoes.

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Steps

1

A walker's foot hits heel first and then rolls gradually from heel-to-toe. So, you will need a flexible sole and more bend in the toe than a runner. You should be able to twist and bend the toe area. Manufacturers like New Balance and Brooks make specialized shoes for walkers.

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2

Look for a shoe that is light weight and breathable. The last thing you want is a heavy walking shoe.

3

Make sure the shoe that fits properly. Be sure your foot has enough room in the toe box. There should be a thumbnails width (or about a half inch) between your toes and the end of the shoe. The shoe should be wide enough in the toe that your toes can move freely. Your heel should not slip, and the shoe should not pinch or bind, especially across the arch or ball of your foot.

4

Try on new shoes at the end of the day or after your walk when your feet may be slightly swollen. Also be sure to wear the same socks you will be wearing during your walks. This can make a huge difference in how the shoe fits. Try on both shoes. Your feet may not be the same size (really!).

5

Walk around for a few minutes on a hard surface. It is worth the effort to find the right shoe for you and it is worth spending a few extra dollars.

6

Wear your shoes in the house for a few days to try them out. Don't venture outdoors until you are sure the shoes are going to work for you. (If the shoes are not going to work out you will want to exchange them before scuffing them up outside.)

7

Keep track of how many miles you have put on your shoes, and replace them every 300 to 600 miles (480 to 970 km). (If you are wearing very light weight shoes, are overweight, or you are hard on your shoes stay toward the low end on mileage.) To extend the life of your shoes be sure to only wear them only for your walks. Also rotating two pair of shoes will give them time to "bounce back" between walks.

8

Keep these items in mind when purchasing your next walking shoes. Your feet and legs will thank you for it.

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Tips

If you are "a person of size" you may benefit more from purchasing shoes that are made for jogging or running. These shoes have support and padding for extra impact that an overweight walker will need to be comfortable and avoid unnecessary pain.

Everyone's foot is different, but there are some universal basics.

Comfortable walking shoes can be purchased just as easily online now as in a store. If you are buying shoes online make sure that the online merchant offers free return shipping (many do) so that if you need to exchange, this won't pose a problem.